Baghdad: The Ministry of Oil on Monday denied any connection or contractual or commercial dealings between the Iraqi Oil Marketing Company (SOMO) and the Binary Star tanker.

According to Iraqi News Agency, the ministry clarified in a statement that, based on SOMO’s available records and data, there is no link or dealings between the company and the Binary Star tanker (IMO: 9380570), its owner, or its operator. The ministry emphasized that SOMO conducts its contracts and maritime operations with companies and tankers that comply with approved standards and are not on international sanctions lists.

The statement further explained that SOMO subjects tankers nominated for the export of crude oil and petroleum products to thorough due diligence and verification processes before acceptance. As part of its oversight procedures, SOMO monitors and verifies the movement of tankers in Iraqi waters, whether they are part of the company’s operations or other tankers under observation.

Additionally, SOMO shares its assessments and reports through an approved electronic platform with relevant security and maritime authorities, including the Naval Force Command, the National Security Service, and the General Company for Iraqi Ports, among others. The ministry noted that due to certain practices observed in maritime shipping, such as the concealment and manipulation of location data and AIS signals, SOMO applies stringent procedures to audit and monitor tanker movements.

By using specialized systems and software to track routes and operational records, SOMO aims to strengthen compliance and enhance oversight of maritime operations related to Iraqi crude oil and petroleum product exports. The ministry stressed that the presence of a tanker in Iraqi waters or its mention in media does not imply any relationship with SOMO, as various tankers operate independently in the region’s waters and ports.